Are you a fan of deli roast beef?
It’s a convenient and delicious option for a quick lunch or dinner, but it’s important to handle and store it properly to avoid food poisoning.
In this article, we’ll answer the burning question: how long does deli roast beef last in the refrigerator?
We’ll also cover tips on how to extend its shelf life and how to tell if it’s gone bad.
So, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking for a tasty sandwich option, read on to learn everything you need to know about storing deli roast beef.
How Long Does Deli Roast Beef Last In The Refrigerator?
The exact answer to this question depends on several factors, including storage conditions and whether the meat has been opened or not.
If you’ve purchased pre-packaged deli roast beef, it should come with a best before date. It’s best to consume the meat on or before this date or freeze it in its unopened package. If the package has already been opened, use a Ziplock bag, plastic wrap, or tin foil to avoid freezer burn and store it in the refrigerator.
Properly stored, sliced deli roast beef will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. However, if you’ve bought unsliced deli roast beef directly from the deli counter, it tends to last roughly 4 to 6 days. It’s important to refrigerate it correctly if you want it to last for a long period of time. Using plastic wrap, freezer bags, or aluminum foil is usually fine.
How Long Can You Store Deli Roast Beef In The Refrigerator?
Deli roast beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days after being sliced or opened. It’s important to keep it in the coldest part of your refrigerator to ensure its freshness. If you’ve purchased pre-packaged deli roast beef, it’s best to consume it before the best before date or freeze it in its unopened package. Once the package has been opened, ensure that you store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and to avoid freezer burn.
If you’ve purchased unsliced deli roast beef directly from the deli counter, it tends to last roughly 4 to 6 days in the refrigerator. It’s important to refrigerate it correctly and use plastic wrap, freezer bags, or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
It’s important to note that bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F, so it’s essential to discard any deli roast beef that has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If you’re unsure about the freshness of your deli roast beef, always err on the side of caution and discard it if it has a slimy surface, off smell, or appearance.
Tips For Extending The Shelf Life Of Deli Roast Beef
If you want to extend the shelf life of deli roast beef, there are several tips you can follow. First and foremost, always make sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic. This will help to prevent air from entering and causing the meat to spoil faster.
When reheating deli roast beef, always heat it until it’s steaming hot all the way through. This will help to kill any bacteria that may have grown during storage. It’s also important to handle and store it properly to avoid food poisoning.
If you have leftover deli roast beef, you can freeze it so that it lasts longer. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic and store it in a container in the freezer. Deli roast beef can last in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-6 months.
If you’ve purchased freshly sliced deli roast beef, make sure to tuck it into the coldest part of your refrigerator as soon as you get home. It should be eaten within five days of opening. Unopened, vacuum-sealed packages can last up to two weeks, and the clock starts ticking down to five days once the seal is cracked.
Finally, if you’re looking for more natural food options, be aware that some brands advertise that their meats are “uncured” or contain no added nitrites. These foods often have ingredients like celery juice, which has a high concentration of sodium nitrate and reacts with certain bacteria or enzymes found in the meats, creating naturally occurring sodium nitrite. Regardless of whether you choose organic or conventional deli roast beef, following these tips can help to extend its shelf life and ensure that it stays fresh for as long as possible.
Signs That Deli Roast Beef Has Gone Bad
While deli roast beef is a convenient and versatile meat, it’s important to know how to tell if it has gone bad. Here are some signs to look out for:
1. Color: Fresh roast beef should have a deep red color, but if it starts to turn brown or grey, it’s a sign that it’s gone bad.
2. Smell: Take a sniff of the meat. If it smells sour, rancid, or emits an unusual odor, it’s probably not safe to eat.
3. Texture: Check the texture of the meat. If it feels slimy or sticky, it’s likely spoiled.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw out the roast beef and select a fresher option. It’s important to pay attention to these indicators to avoid food poisoning and ensure that you’re consuming safe and fresh deli roast beef.
How To Properly Store Deli Roast Beef In The Refrigerator
To properly store deli roast beef in the refrigerator, follow these simple steps:
1. Wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to keep out oxygen and prevent the growth of mold.
2. Store the meat in the coldest part of your refrigerator, such as the bottom shelf. This will help to maintain its freshness for a longer period of time.
3. Consume the meat within four days of opening the package. If you cannot eat it that quickly, freeze it for future use.
4. If you have purchased unsliced deli roast beef directly from the deli counter, it’s important to refrigerate it correctly. Using plastic wrap, freezer bags, or aluminum foil is usually fine.
By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy deli roast beef for weeks instead of days. Remember to always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming the meat, such as an “off” smell or slimy texture. When in doubt, throw it out!
Creative Ways To Use Leftover Deli Roast Beef
If you have leftover deli roast beef, don’t let it go to waste! Here are some creative ways to use it up:
1. Beefy Pasta Salad: Leftover deli roast beef can be transformed into a delicious pasta salad by adding some cooked pasta, veggies, and a creamy soy-ginger dressing. This flavorful dressing can be customized to your liking, so you can make it as spicy or mild as you want.
2. Beef Stroganoff: Transform your leftover roast beef into a comforting and satisfying stroganoff. With creamy gravy, juicy beef, and satisfying noodles, this dish is the full package. The noodles bulk up the leftovers, so everyone is guaranteed to be stuffed for the second day in a row.
3. Shepherd’s Pie: One of our favorite leftover roast beef recipes is shepherd’s pie (or cottage pie). With shredded beef, mashed potatoes, veggies such as green beans and carrots (and green peas!), and a layer of melty shredded cheddar cheese on top, this is a casserole that will satisfy every member of your family.
4. Spicy Curries: Leftover deli roast beef can add a delicious flavor and texture to spicy curries. Simply add it to your favorite curry recipe for an extra kick of protein.
5. Garlicky Noodles: Add some leftover deli roast beef to garlicky noodles for a quick and easy meal. This simple dish can be made in just a few minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights.
6. Greek Wraps: Use leftover deli roast beef to make delicious Greek wraps. Simply wrap the beef in a pita with some veggies and tzatziki sauce for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
7. Vietnamese Pho: Leftover deli roast beef can also be used to make a delicious Vietnamese pho. Simply add the beef to some broth with noodles, veggies, and herbs for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
